The bill proposes the establishment of a Cultural History Advisory Board within the Michigan Department of Education, aimed at enhancing cultural competency in K-12 education. The board will be appointed by the superintendent of public instruction and will consist of diverse members representing various cultural communities, educators, and higher education institutions. The members must demonstrate cultural competency and avoid bias or discrimination as outlined in the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act. The board is tasked with providing recommendations for a K-12 curriculum tool kit and professional development focused on teaching history related to multiple cultural groups, including Asian Americans, Black Americans, Indigenous Peoples, and others.

Additionally, the advisory board is required to hold public meetings to gather input from the community and collaborate with various stakeholders, including local institutions and cultural organizations, to develop the curriculum tool kit. Members will serve two-year terms, and the board is expected to meet quarterly. The bill also outlines provisions for member compensation and the process for filling vacancies on the board. Overall, this initiative aims to promote a more inclusive and culturally aware educational framework in Michigan schools.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 380.1, 380.1852